Combination of Water Immersion and Carbon Dioxide Insufflation for Minimal Sedation Colonoscopy

Combination of Water Immersion and Carbon Dioxide Insufflation for Minimal Sedation Colonoscopy - a Prospective, Randomized, Single-center Trial

Water immersion insertion and carbon dioxide (CO2)instead of room air insufflation as alternative colonoscopy techniques have been documented to decrease patient discomfort during and after the procedure.

This prospective, randomized, single-center trial was designed to evaluate whether the combination of water immersion during insertion and CO2 insufflation during withdrawal (Water/CO2)for minimal sedation colonoscopy (2 mg of midazolam i.v.)is superior to the other colonoscopy methods (Water/Air, CO2/CO2, Air/Air).

Inclusion Criteria:

• men and women older than 18 years referred for diagnostic outpatient colonoscopy
• provided written consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• history of colorectal surgery
• known diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease
• chronic benzodiazepine use
• refusal of minimal sedation